The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has reassured passengers on the Abuja-Kaduna Train Service that recent disruptions are temporary and not due to negligence.
In a statement on Tuesday, Chief Public Relations Officer Callistus Unyimadu acknowledged commuters’ concerns and emphasised that the Corporation values feedback from its customers. “We appreciate the passion, concern, and sense of national responsibility expressed. These are genuine sentiments shared by a concerned customer and patriotic Nigerians. We value all our customers and take every feedback seriously,” the statement said.
The NRC described the Abuja-Kaduna corridor as a key part of Nigeria’s rail revival, noting that any disruption, no matter how brief, is widely felt. The Corporation apologised for the inconvenience caused by the August 26 derailment, which damaged several Diesel Multiple Unit coaches and temporarily reduced service frequency.
The Corporation identified two main challenges affecting operations. The first is the March 2022 terrorist attack along the corridor, which resulted in fatalities and trauma. In response, NRC strengthened security measures, revised operating procedures, restricted late trips, and enhanced collaboration with the Armed Forces and Police.
The second is the recent derailment at Asham Station, which damaged coaches and further reduced available rolling stock. NRC said repairs and refurbishments are ongoing, with additional coaches being deployed to restore full service as quickly as possible.
“These challenges do not represent a decline in our commitment. They reflect a phase of recovery, restoration, and rebuilding,” the statement said, adding that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, continues to support the revitalisation of rail infrastructure nationwide.
Damaged coaches are being repaired and certified for safe operation, while alternative rolling stock is being considered to maintain service where feasible. Security along the corridor remains a top priority, and restoring multiple daily trips is a primary operational goal.
Passengers were urged to remain patient as the Corporation works to return services to full capacity, with assurances that progressive improvements will be visible in the coming weeks.
The Abuja-Kaduna route has faced long-standing challenges including ageing infrastructure, poor maintenance, and safety lapses. In March 2022, a bandit attack in Kaduna’s Katari–Rijana area led to fatalities, injuries, and temporary suspension of the service. Nationwide, 183 derailments were recorded between 2020 and 2022, highlighting systemic weaknesses.
The August 26, 2025 derailment at Asham Station, coming just over a year after a similar incident, has renewed public concern over maintenance and safety standards on the route.
